Super Red 80

Cabbage

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 85d to harvest Rosette

Crisp, jewel-toned heads arrive in a rich, velvety red that deepens as they mature—an eye-catching color with a satisfying crunch…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 10th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Aug 1st
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	30
Harden Off (days)	6

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease pest issue for Brassica oleracea var. capitata (cabbage) like ‘Super Red 80’, and how do I control it?

Cabbage commonly suffers from cabbage worms (imported cabbageworm/diamondback) that chew holes in leaves and can rapidly devastate heads. Inspect plants 2–3 times per week and hand-pick caterpillars early, then treat with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) when you first see active feeding (follow label rates; reapply after heavy rain). For disease, watch for black rot and other brassica leaf issues—remove infected outer leaves immediately and avoid wetting foliage to reduce spread.

How often should I water ‘Super Red 80’ during the main growing phase so heads form properly?

During head formation (roughly mid-season to the last 3–4 weeks before harvest), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week total from rainfall and irrigation. Water deeply 1–2 times weekly rather than frequent light sprinkling, and check moisture 2–3 inches down—if it’s dry there, water. Avoid letting the soil swing from very dry to very wet, which can contribute to splitting and poor head tightness.

How can I tell when ‘Super Red 80’ is ready to harvest?

Harvest when heads feel firm and dense when gently squeezed, and the outer leaves have reached the expected size for the variety by about 85 days from transplanting/establishment. Check color and firmness at least every few days in the final week—looser, “springy” heads need more time. Cut the head with a sharp knife, leaving a few outer leaves to protect it during handling.

Crisp, jewel-toned heads arrive in a rich, velvety red that deepens as they mature—an eye-catching color with a satisfying crunch. Super Red 80 forms tightly wrapped, heavy cabbages with a fine, dense texture and a pleasantly sweet, cabbage-forward flavor that holds its character beautifully. Ideal for bold salads, vibrant slaws, and tangy fermented or pickled preparations where color and crunch are the stars.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 30°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For best dense heads, keep soil evenly moist and avoid heat spikes—consistent cool temperatures improve firmness and color.